Do I need a PCV to drive a minibus?

<p>Driving licence categories can be pretty complex, and one of the most common questions we get asked is: <i>do I need a PCV to drive a minibus? </i></p>

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<p>The short answer to this is - it really depends! But, let’s walk you through it in detail… </p>

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<h3>What is a PCV license?</h3>

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<p>In short, PCV stands for Passenger Carrying Vehicle, and holding a PCV licence means you’re legally entitled to drive a minibus with 9 - 16 passenger seats, commercially (for ‘hire or reward’). </p>

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<h3>Do I need a PCV to drive a minibus?</h3>

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To <a href="<https://www.advanced-kfs.co.uk/news/5-reasons-why-a-bespoke-minibus-no-d1-required-from-advanced-kfs-is-best/>">drive a minibus</a>, you don’t always have to have a PCV licence. Some Passenger Carrying Vehicles are exempt, and holders of category B licences may drive any of the following vehicles (although it’s important to note that this might be subject to change following an announcement by the Department for Infrastructure):

<ul>

<li>PCV’s manufactured more than 30 years before a date driven</li> 

<li>PCV’s not used for hire or reward (i.e. payment or commercial use)</li>

<li>A minibus with up to 16 passengers</li>

</ul>

<p><i>NB: you don’t need a PCV licence if you are driving a minibus voluntarily or for social activities.</i></p>

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<h3>Passenger Carrying Recovery Vehicles</h3>

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<p>It’s important to note that individuals who hold a PCV licence are also permitted to drive Passenger Carrying Recovery Vehicles. </p>

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These are defined as vehicles that: 

<ul>

<li>Have an unladen weight not exceeding 10.2 tonnes </li>

<li>Are operated by the holder of a PSV Operator’s licence</li>

<li>Are being used to reach a place where assistance is to be given to a damaged or disabled passenger carrying vehicle</li>

</ul>  

<p>Yes, driving licences and their varying categories are complex, and can often feel confusing, but it’s vital to always check any permissions, permits or special licences you and/or your employees need to hold before driving a larger vehicle like a minibus, particularly when transporting children. You can never be too careful!</p> 

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<p>Alongside this, of course, is the sometimes overlooked importance of also ensuring - once any licenses or permits are in place - any vehicle you drive is of a high quality! </p>

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<p><a href="<https://www.advanced-kfs.co.uk/services/people-movers/school-minibus/>">Click here</a> to view our range of high quality minibuses, built without compromise, or <a href="<https://www.advanced-kfs.co.uk/contact/>">contact us</a> today for more information.</p>